Poly Header tank fix ???

[rogerh12]

I have a Poly header tank for my model 4, which is new. I heard there is an issue with fuel odor, so I was thinking maybe it could just be sealed up, like folks do with the fiberglass wing tanks.

Has anyone successfully sealed a poly tank before, and if so, what did they use?

Let me know, thanks
Roger

[WISDAN]

Roger, My poly header tank had a very small fuel leak on one of the threaded fitting joints. I used the recommended Permatex 9A sealant to seal the threads, it worked good for a couple months then I re-sealed the fitting with the same sealant with no problems since....have 85 hours logged now. The poly threads can be hard to seal and I know others in this group have had issues with this. As of now I have no fuel oder in my Fox.😄

Dan

[jiott]

I agree, its the fittings that are hard to seal up properly, not the fuel permeating thru the tank walls. I gave up and ordered the aluminum tank and had no problems since.

Jim

[Geowitz]

Permatex 9AR used on a poly tank here as well with no leaks in 75 hours. Also use the Trident barrier lined marine hose and have had good luck.

[WISDAN]

Geowitz, could you tell me where to get the marine hose you used. I want to replace my fuel hoses at my next yearly inspection. Glad your airplane is working well for you, I can't be happier with mine!

Dan

[n85ae]

Hmm ...

I go with fuel permeating the walls, I check my header pretty frequently, as I
have had fuel smell for years. I have resealed all my fittings at least three times,
yet to no avail. I use an old tee shirt and do a little wipe test around each
fitting and not even a hint of blue. Which would surely be found since the
avgas dye would be picked up if I had a slow leak.

Regards, Jeff



I agree, its the fittings that are hard to seal up properly, not the fuel permeating thru the tank walls. I gave up and ordered the aluminum tank and had no problems since.

Jim

[Geowitz]

Dan - I luckily have a "Hydraulic Supply" store in town and was able to pick it up off the shelf. I used the 5/16 inner diameter shown here...

https://www.hydraulic-supply.com/compass/servlet/TRIDENT_5/16_ID_USCG_TYPE_A1_SAEJ1527_MARINE_FUEL_HOSE_35393 0.htm

Trident 365 A1-15

There are also other brands that I'm sure work just as well so really anything with "low permeation" should do well like "Gates Barricade" available at many auto parts stores...

http://www.oreillyauto.com/site/c/detail/GATY/27314/N0887.oap?ck=Search_N0887_-1_2363&pt=N0887&ppt=C0222

[WISDAN]

Thanks Geowitz !

calm skies,

Dan

[rogerh12]

Ok, thanks for all the info guys.
I will try to seal my poly tank up and use the new fuel hose too, but if it does start leaking I will just swap it out for the aluminum one.
Roger